About Zach R.

About Zach

I have been teaching trumpet, music theory, jazz harmony, jazz piano, and music composition to students of all ages since late 2008. I work very well with young, beginning students as well, and can teach all levels.

I am a touring trumpet player currently working with SAINT MOTEL, and have experiences performing and touring all over the world. In addition to excellent musical education, I apply lessons I have learned from travel that I find truly help as an educational supplement.

Working at UCLA for my degree in music performance has taught me what it takes to be a good teacher, and I am patient, understanding, and believe there's no greater feeling than watching my students flourish. I like to take the time to get to know my students, and plan lessons around their individual needs, rather than plug them into a system set in ston

e. I have a routine I do, that I will start students with, but am very open to modification based on student needs/desires.

I perform jazz professionally in Los Angeles, and have spent time touring in playing in the San Francisco Bay Area, New York, the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Macedonia, Canada, and have performed or led groups internationally at the Umbria Jazz Festival, the North Sea Jazz Festival, the Montreux Jazz Festival, the Tuscia Jazz Festival, the Angel City Jazz Festival and the Monterey Jazz Festival. You can hear my original compositions and playing on bandcamp or soundcloud.

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Reviews

Sebastian K. January 24, 2018·Trumpet·In home

My son loves having lessons with Zach - they are not only fun and interesting, he also improves every lesson.

Cara October 8, 2017·Trumpet·In home

My 9 yr old son has learned so much in only 3 lessons with Zach. We had planned on doing 1 lesson a week but immediately my son wanted more. He is very new to playing an instrument so we were just eager for him to play something that resembled a note but we’ve been super surprised to hear him already playing recognizable beginner songs.

FA March 13, 2016·Piano·In home

Perfect. My daughter is so happy. This teacher is very nice. He teaches very well.

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Zach R.

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Zach R.

Los Angeles, CA 90024

(10)

starting at

$40
/ 30-min

About Thomas K.

Strong instrumental playing begins with a solid understanding of the fundamentals of music and the simple act of making a sound from the instrument. Students learn to play music by ear first, and are later introduced to music notation. More advanced lessons emphasize sight-reading, expression, and improvisation.

An instrumentalist since age 10, Thomas has experience as a performer and teacher. His previous education has included methodology classes on teaching specific instruments, and he is available to teach beginning trumpet lessons.

About Thomas

No one ever regrets learning an instrument… yet many grow old wishing they had taken music lessons! A talent they’ll be able to develop their entire life, your children will thank you for giving them the chance to learn music. And bonus points for you: after just a couple years, you’ll have free entertainment every Christmas!

Or maybe YOU’RE the one that wishes to learn! It is never too late to begin learning an instrument. Everybody has the ability, and if you’re determined and interested, there’s nothing stopping us from achieving this very special goal. (Interested in learning to compose? Scroll to the bottom to learn more.)

gside a song you love or reading through a classical concerto, I’ll help prepare you or your child to tackle a wide variety of styles, without missing out on any of the basics that turn good players into phenomenal musicians. We all know it’s not about being the best. It’s about having fun, and playing music well is definitely fun. Music lessons include:

1. Building a really strong foundation so it's easy to interpret or understand any part, and to play it with the right amount of practice.

2. Learning to sight-read music, so you can play it well as soon as possible.

3. Learning how to improvise (make-up) music, learn music by ear, and to understand and create chords, which lets you play music in different ways.

4. Play different styles from classical to jazz to popular music.

5. Learning how to practice efficiently so you can learn music as fast as possible.

6. Composing our own original music.

Practice makes perfect! Learning an instrument helps build self-confidence and discipline. If your child’s bored, distracted, or just needs a constructive hobby, music is a great place to get them interested in something that will help them feel better about themselves, and the effects will be felt across everything else they do, through better studying habits to a more patient, diligent work ethic.

It’s also relaxing! Stressed about work? Need an escape? Everybody has the power to learn an instrument. Seriously, there’s no such thing as “talent.” Just start lessons and get practicing! It really is that simple, and I’ll guide you through every step of the way.

I have a diverse background teaching students of all ages, from 3-year-olds to retirees alike, customizing what we learn to the individual student. We’ll learn how to read music just as easily as you read words; improvise and compose music of our own; and feel good playing any style: classical, jazz, rock, and all. My experience as a working musician in films, musical theater, and pop music, as well as classical concert music, allows me to appreciate and teach styles that many other instructors overlook, and I know full well that learning an instrument is not about becoming a professional; it’s about being able to connect to others or oneself through music… and also to just have fun! There’s no need to learn music we don’t like! It’s not about stuffing Beethoven into your kids’ ears… we just want to make music, be that Beethoven or Billy Joel.

Learning an instrument is one of those few skills that will genuinely last you your whole life. I don’t want to sugarcoat it: it takes time to learn an instrument. It takes practice, and sometimes it’s frustrating. But the results are well worth it.

Now get out there and make some music! But start by signing up for lessons. I can’t wait to get started!

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“What’s that chord?” “Why does all my music sound the same?” “How do I fix this voicing?” “I just can’t get it out of my head!” …sound familiar? You’ve probably hit a rut. Or maybe you’re just starting out. Either way, you want your music to sound new, exciting, and to come out exactly how you hear it in your head. Yes… you CAN learn to compose music, you CAN learn to be more creative, and you CAN learn to share your sound with the world.

Film music, classical, jazz… whatever your interest, all music comes from the same place, and by learning a handful of basic concepts, you can apply these to whatever style you’re trying to write. Learning to emulate another musician involves knowing what they’re doing. Learning to create a groundbreaking sound requires that you know what’s already been done, and how to achieve it. Step by step, we’ll work our way there.

We’ll learn how to write cool, interesting chord progressions, how to write beautiful melodies, and how to voice chords. We’ll learn how to control the mood of our music, from making it sound relaxed to adding tension wherever we want. Maybe you’re trying to write for an orchestra, or just a small band. By learning the basics, you can then easily break away from what’s been done and come up with something truly new… the goal of any aspiring composer!

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Reviews

Estefania March 5, 2019·Composition·In studio

So incredibly patient and knowledgeable!

Eric D. January 30, 2019·Piano·In studio

The first lesson was successful. My particular background in piano is unique, and my needs are atypical as well. I thought Thomas assessed my abilities, lack of abilities, and goals well and quickly. He started me on a different perspective on looking at music (reading the staff) that seems very helpful. I'm encouraged.

Armen T. September 24, 2018·Piano·In studio

Excellent teacher!

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Thomas K.

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Thomas K.

Glendale, CA 91204

(31)

starting at

$32
/ 30-min

About William A.

I Have been teaching for 10 + years.Part of my daily focus is on relaxed breathing and generating a big beautiful tone for every note played. Long tones are something that I include in my daily regiment. Lots of dexterity exercises,range building, as well as endurance.

Another aspect of my daily regiment is improvisation. focusing on major/minor/ whole tone/diminished scales/ II-Vs in all keys and playing changes!

Lastly RESTING as MUCH as you PRACTICE is very IMPORTANT!

About William

William is a versatile and energetic musician, having shared the stage and recorded with numerous popular artists. Other performances with: John Mayer, toured with Teena Marie for 5 years,Stevie Wonder, accompanied Mariah Carey at the 2006 Grammy’s, Ludacris on the Jay Leno Show, India Arie, Nine Inch Nails,Mos Def, Rick Ross, Lloyd, Snoop Dogg, Sinbad & The Stank Nasty Band, Macy Gray, Blu Cantrell,Richard Wright, Roy Hargrove, Earth Wind & Fire, Miles Mosely (Playboy jazz fest, 2017), Prince, Sebastian Bach, Eric Benet, Lupe Fiasco( Lolapalooza (2008), Dakah Hip Hop Orchestra, and as a regular Guest with NBC’s Late Night with Carson Daly house-band. William has also performed on American Idol and The Voice, as well as appereances on HBO's "Criminal Minds",july 4th ABC and CMA Christmas T.V. Specials with Lady Antebellum. William regular

ly tours with Capital cities and had the pleasure of performing at "lalapalooza," "life is beautiful," "firefly, "coachella" and many other music festivals with CC. William recently toured with Lady Antebellum for their 'You look good tour' in the summer of 2017 which included among many venues, the legendary "Hollywood Bowl."

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Reviews

Zoe March 5, 2019·Trumpet·In studio

I really like having classes with William - I love far from his house but each week I drive happily.
It’s my 5th class and I improved a lot.
Great teacher

Matthew B.

Matthew B.

About Trevor J.

I have been teaching Trumpet for 2 years, I am a college senior with one more semester. I Specialize in growing beginner to intermediate players and intermediate players to advanced players. Lessons are customized to the needs of each student. Students will all grow to understand music theory, become better readers, Improved technique, and richer tones. Let's get started.

About Trevor

I am a professional trumpet player. I have played lead trumpet with the Jimmy McConnell Super Big Band, Lead player at Biola University Jazz ensemble. Principle in Biola Universities orchestra and wind ensemble for 2 years. I am Currently finishing up my Bachelors of Music in Performance at Biola University.

My trumpet students should expect to improve weekly in instrumental techniques, range, sight reading abilities, soloistic playing and endurance. students will also receive musical theory information regarding literature the student is working on.

Jonathan E.

Jonathan E.

About Antonia B.

Want to take great solos? Want to learn how jazz has influenced pop music? Want know how to play trumpet in multiple contemporary genres? I have spent over 12 years studying trumpet. During this time I have focused on jazz and it's impact on pop, rock, and R&B music. Coupled with my expertise as a lead singer, I can take your performance skills and stage presence to the next level. I also work great with kids, creating a fun learning environment to get them excited about different styles of music.

About Antonia

Antonia is a professional trumpet player, vocalist, and songwriter in the Los Angeles area.

Starting violin at age 5, Antonia quickly developed a passion for music. Captivated by the raw power and tone of brass instruments, she traded in her violin for a trumpet at age 10.

When Antonia was only sixteen years old, she began performing professionally - fronting several local big bands as lead vocalist, as well as sitting in the trumpet section. Last summer, she was given the honor of playing at The Library of Congress with one of her big bands.

Antonia makes weekly appearances with local music groups ranging from jazz and funk music to rock, R&B, and rap. Antonia has a solo project of her original material under the name The Runtime. Her debut EP is in progress.

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Reviews

Eli February 17, 2019·Trumpet·In home

Today was Eli's first trumpet lesson with Antonia. Antonia was super patient and helped him with some difficulties he was having.

Elizabeth February 5, 2019·Singing·In studio

Antonia is a gifted and kind teacher. She gave my 15 year old singing lessons. My daughter was very hesitant at first but after the first day that subsided. Antonia is practical with praise and instilled the realistic aspect of practice and hard work needed to succeed. I saw my daughter go from a kid who would never sing in front of people to one who practiced drills, learned music and performed for the first time in front of an audience with confidence and poise. I cannot thank Antonia enough for her kindness, patience and real approach to teaching.

Leandra Alex January 26, 2019·Singing·In studio

Antonia is an excellent teacher! She is patient, encouraging, and really knows her stuff. She has helped me improve my technique, and imparted valuable knowledge that I have applied to my singing with excellent results. She’s also just a downright wonderful human being. If I could give more than five stars, I would.

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Antonia B.

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Antonia B.

Burbank, CA 91505

(5)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

About Justin A.

Ever wonder why your favorite trumpet players sound the way that they do? Music is all about a healthy balance of strong, focused fundamentals that then facilitate the expression and artistry that made us all fall in love in the first place. Effective, concise practice is my specialty and I can help all players, old and new, adjust or create their own routines, learn to play just like their favorite artists, and develop their own sound as they move forward with music!

About Justin

There are many fantastic players out there in the world, but being a great teacher takes more than just good playing. While I've had experience playing in Los Angeles with schools, as a side musician, and with my own band- my passion for teaching and helping students grow is truly what I'd like to sell to you.

I am working on my Bachelor's of Music in Jazz Studies and have studied with some phenomenal players/teachers that had a true passion for teaching music. Dr. James Ford III from CSULA who plays is the Grammy Award winning group the Clayton Hamilton Orchestra, Mike Cottone, a Monk Institute alum that most recently toured with the Eagles, and Kevin Brown a fantastic classic trumpet player that played with the LA Phil for two years.As a student myself I can bring the experience of immensely successful teachers to supplement my own p

assion to our lessons for a fraction of the price.

...

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Justin A.

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Justin A.

Glendale, CA 91205

starting at

$42
/ 30-min

About Peter D.

Both of my parents were professional musicians and music teachers. I have been playing since I was 8. I have a very understanding but thorough approach. I am second chair in the Westlake Vilkage Symphony. I specialize in classical music. I was all-state all four years of HS (band, orchestra, and CODA) and received a performance scholarship at the University of the Pacific where I was Principle in the orchestra all four years. I am also the Educational Sales Representative for Nick Rail Music.

About Peter

Trumpet is a hard instrument as you probably know by now. I can give you all the tips and tricks for taming the instrument. With 22 years of playing experience, currently 2nd trumpet in the Westlake Village Symphony, I can make sure you don’t develop bad habits. A great bonus about taking with me is you will get great discounts on sheet music and accessories because lessons are at Nick Rail Music Monday - Friday!

...

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Peter D.

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Peter D.

Agoura Hills, CA 91301

starting at

$59
/ 30-min

About Peter D.

Both of my parents were professional musicians and music teachers. I have been playing since I was 8. I have a very understanding but thorough approach. I am second chair in the Westlake Vilkage Symphony. I specialize in classical music. I was all-state all four years of HS (band, orchestra, and CODA) and received a performance scholarship at the University of the Pacific where I was Principle in the orchestra all four years. I am also the Educational Sales Representative for Nick Rail Music.

About Peter

Trumpet is a hard instrument as you probably know by now. I can give you all the tips and tricks for taming the instrument. With 22 years of playing experience, currently 2nd trumpet in the Westlake Village Symphony, I can make sure you don’t develop bad habits. A great bonus about taking with me is you will get great discounts on sheet music and accessories because lessons are at Nick Rail Music Monday - Friday!

Affordable

Effective

Trumpet Lesson Reviews from Students

Students are raving about their Trumpet instructors on TakeLessons.
Check out some of these recent reviews.

Review by armen

"Verry good person,verry good teacher,paisont and caring.verry professional"

Los Angeles, CA teacher:
Thomas K.

Review by Stephen

"Good first start. William is very knowledgable and easy going. Looking forward to making progress."

Los Angeles, CA teacher:
William A.

Review by Chris

"Knox is the best! He can demonstrate anything and explains things very well. Seems like a cool guy too, very straight ahead.
I definitely recommend him!"

Los Angeles, CA teacher:
Knox S.

Review by Karim

"Very good first lesson, figuring out where I'm at with the horn and gave me some great exercises to help build up technique ."

Los Angeles, CA teacher:
William A.

Review by Brian

"Will is a really excellent teacher! I started with absolutely ZERO experience and he was kind, patient, and a really excellent start for any new student.

We worked mainly on fundamentals, breathing exercises, and embouchure technique the first few weeks before jumping right into learning basic songs and music theory. He tailored the lessons to my ability and gave me pointers throughout to make sure I was staying consistent.

I would recommend Will to anyone that is interested in tackling the trumpet, from beginner (me) to advanced. Thanks Will!"

...

Los Angeles, CA teacher:
William A.

Review by Sebastian

"My son loves having lessons with Zach - they are not only fun and interesting, he also improves every lesson."

Los Angeles, CA teacher:
Zach R.

Review by Zachary

"Outstanding instructor! Beckie is very positive and encouraging and my son has learned so much in just a few weeks. My son looks forward to his session

each week. She is also an amazing musician herself and plays her instrument side by side with my son which allows him to hear and learn the individual notes."

...

Los Angeles, CA teacher:
Beckie E.

Review by ali

"Prompt. Courteous. Extremely friendly and knowledgeable. Thrilled to have found him and eager for more lessons."

Los Angeles, CA teacher:
Zach R.

Review by Isabella

"Thomas is great- gets right to the meat of the lesson and makes my daughter want to practice!"

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